Guitar dudes: What do I need to know about 12 string acoustics?

[Analog]

I've never played one - is it just a matter of picking one up and away you go? Or is the neck different, the way your fingers press different etc?

Just wondering. I have an opportunity of picking up a 12 string Seagull acoustic/electric cheap. Not sure what to expect etc. Thanks.

 

[ConwayJim]

It takes some getting use to, but if you just play regular chords, it's pretty easy to pickup.

 

[DaTT]

You are basically fretting 2 strings at once. Each string has a partner. I have never played one, but I would imagine if you know how to play a 6 string, just a little getting used to the double strings is all it would take.

 

[lxskllr]

It takes twice as long to tune :^D

Seriously, I'm half tone deaf, so a regular guitar slightly out of tune doesn't bother me, but a 12 string has to be right on, or it sounds like shit, unless you're going for a special effect.

 

[Fausto]

I've never played one - is it just a matter of picking one up and away you go? Or is the neck different, the way your fingers press different etc?

Just wondering. I have an opportunity of picking up a 12 string Seagull acoustic/electric cheap. Not sure what to expect etc. Thanks.

As has been pointed out, the strings are six sets of two. The lower strings have a "partner" one octave above the normal tuning, the higher strings are the same pitch. The end effect is that you get sort of a natural chorus effect.

Chords and stuff are played just like you'd play a six string, but it takes a bit more finger strength and coordination to get it right (particularly if you are picking and not strumming). Neck is a tad wider to accomodate the extra strings as well.

They are a pain in the ass to tune, so I'd recommend a clip-on tuner if you don't already have one. I put off getting one forever as a point of pride, but now that I have one I don't know wtf I didn't get one years ago.

 

[Analog]

As has been pointed out, the strings are six sets of two. The lower strings have a "partner" one octave above the normal tuning, the higher strings are the same pitch. The end effect is that you get sort of a natural chorus effect.

Chords and stuff are played just like you'd play a six string, but it takes a bit more finger strength and coordination to get it right (particularly if you are picking and not strumming). Neck is a tad wider to accomodate the extra strings as well.

They are a pain in the ass to tune, so I'd recommend a clip-on tuner if you don't already have one. I put off getting one forever as a point of pride, but now that I have one I don't know wtf I didn't get one years ago.

thanks for the info. I need to get a clip on for the 6 string!:biggrin:

 

[Platypus]

+1 fausto

 

[Markbnj]

Yep, that's about it: pain in the ass to tune. Which is one reason to get a good one, if you're going to get one. I've owned cheap guitars, and one or two expensive ones, and my current favorite is a 1964 Martin D18 that holds its tune forever. I've played a few 12-strings, but never wanted to own one. They sound good to me on some songs, gimmicky on others.

 

[ZOOYUKA]

I don't have any experience with a 12 string, but I can vouch for the quality of Seagull. I have a Spruce+ S6 and love it!

 

[TechBoyJK]

Did you guys ever see the Hamer 12 String Bass? It's a 4 string with each string in triplicate.

It was used on Pearl Jam's song "Jeremy"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MS91knuzoOA&ob=av2e

 

[mrblotto]

-fun to play
-sucks to tune
-takes a wee bit getting used to holding down twice as many strings
-you get what you pay for
-Mine spent more time in it's case lol

 

[Fritzo]

Seagull is a great brand. Any of their 12-string models should do well. I usually recommend people stay away from bargain basement 12-strings because if the neck is poorly made, it will bow and warp due to the string tension.

Also, when starting out, use the lightest gauge strings possible. It'll wreck your fingertips 😀 When I get on a 12-string kick, it rips the hell out of my callouses.